Tridge summary
Over 300,000 sheep were transported across the Nullarbor Plain in the first quarter of this year, marking the second highest first-quarter flow on record. The number of head sent east was 357,486, a significant increase from the same period last year. The high numbers reflect the strain on WA sheep producers, with concerns about the potential closure of the live export avenue until mid-September. The industry is also facing challenges in moving 30-40kg lambs, as the supply chain has been disrupted by conflict in the Middle East. Farmers are seeking a freight subsidy to open up the Eastern States' market and relieve pressure. The movement of sheep to the Eastern States has helped clear the oversupply, but the industry needs market alternatives, including processors, live export, and other graziers, to move the lighter mutton.
Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.
Original content
More than 300,000 sheep were trucked across the Nullarbor Plain in the first three months of this year - the second highest first-quarter flows on record behind the 2020 season. According to Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) figures, 357,486 head - including 205,844 sheep and 151,642 lambs - were sent over east from January-March. This is significantly higher than 195,473 head in the same time last year. An Episode 3 analysis showed that west to east sheep transfers this year were running 250 per cent higher in average volumes per month, compared to the ten-year average for Q1. According to the analysis, the strong volumes seen so far rival those during the same three-month period of 2021, when 349,122-head were transferred. Episode 3 founder and market analyst Matt Dalgleish said these big volumes - which are only viable when the west and east price discount is wide enough to cover freight costs - highlight the strain facing WA sheep producers. He ...
Source: Farmweekly
Would you like more in-depth insights?
Gain access to detailed market analysis tailored to your business needs.
Related market data
What to read next
Read more relevant content
By clicking “Accept Cookies,” I agree to provide cookies for statistical and personalized preference purposes. To learn more about our cookies, please read our Privacy Policy.